Frustrated by frizz and undefined waves when trying to style your curls? You’re not alone. Many curl newbies (and even seasoned pros) find diffusing tricky—but when done right, it can be your hair's best friend. With the right approach, you can create soft, defined curls full of volume and movement. Enter: Brad Mondo’s expert diffusing technique. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll bust the biggest myths, break down Brad’s proven steps, and introduce styling products that make all the difference.
What a Diffuser Actually Does
A diffuser is a blow dryer attachment designed to dry curly or wavy hair gently while enhancing natural texture. The prongs and holes disperse airflow, which helps:
- Tighten curl and wave patterns
- Reduce frizz
- Add lift and body at the roots
- Preserve definition without disrupting shape
In short: it’s the go-to tool for bouncy, frizz-free waves and curls.
Common Diffusing Mistakes to Avoid
Before we get into Brad’s technique, let’s clear up a few rookie mistakes:
❌ Using High Heat: Max heat can dry out your hair and create frizz fast—especially for curl-prone strands.
❌ High Airflow: Strong airflow blows curls out of shape before they have a chance to form.
❌ Blow-Drying Upward: This lifts the cuticle and creates puffiness, especially around the crown.
❌ Skipping Styling Products: Without the right foundation, even perfect technique won’t give you long-lasting results.
Brad Mondo’s Top 3 Diffusing Rules
Brad keeps it simple and effective with three golden rules:
1️⃣ Use Low-to-Medium Heat
- Prevents dryness and makes styling more comfortable
- Avoids heat damage and preserves moisture
2️⃣ Keep Airflow Low
- Lets curls set in place without disruption
- Gives you more control while shaping curls
3️⃣ Always Direct Airflow Down or Toward the Head
- Encourages smooth cuticles and frizz-free texture
- Helps maintain natural curl or wave pattern
Step-by-Step: Brad Mondo’s Diffusing Routine
STEP 1️⃣: Start with Damp Hair
- Towel blot gently or let air-dry slightly before styling.
STEP 2️⃣: Apply Styling Products Generously
- Focus on roots, underlayers, and areas like sideburns.
- Brad recommends:
- Wavetech™ Wave Foam: Builds flexible structure without crunch.
- Salty Sea Salt Spray: Adds texture and grip—especially great for fine or straight hair.
STEP 3️⃣: Scrunch Hair to Encourage Curl Formation
- Gently lift mid-lengths and ends toward the scalp.
STEP 4️⃣: Diffuse in Sections
- Place a section in your palm and bring the diffuser up to the head.
- Always keep the airflow pointing downward.
STEP 5️⃣: Hands Off While Drying
- Try not to touch or restyle while drying—this minimizes frizz.
STEP 6️⃣: Once Dry, Break the Cast
- Use your hands to gently scrunch and soften the curl hold.
- Optional: Shake out the curls for lived-in texture.
Product Picks: Brad’s Styling Go-Tos
Wavetech™ Wave Foam: Flexible, non-crunchy hold for waves and curls
- Designed with Waveflex Technology™ — A super blend of wave forming ingredients that create a molecular barrier on the hair strand for defined waves with remarkable flexibility.
Salty Sea Salt Spray: Beach hair in a bottle!
- Designed with mineral-rich salt water imported from France + baobab oil to enhance hydration and provide the perfect beachy look.
- Perfect on damp or dry hair for a beachy finish
Quick Recap: Do’s & Don’ts for Beginner Diffusing
✅ Do:
- Use low heat and low airflow
- Style with curl-supporting products first
- Direct air downward for smoothness
🚫 Don’t:
- Blast with high heat
- Diffuse without product
- Touch hair too much while drying
Final Thoughts
Learning how to diffuse wavy and curly hair can feel like a mystery at first, but with Brad Mondo’s technique and the right product support, it becomes a curl-care essential. For beginners, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency. Start small, get to know your texture, and let your natural pattern shine with a little expert help.